IASP highlights Megatrends in Innovation Eco-systems

Entering the IASP's World Conference has become like meeting the global family once a year. The IASP community is characterized by openness, inclusiveness, and a willingness to share knowledge and experience. It is empowering to meet innovation leaders from all over the world united in their efforts to improve conditions for innovation companies, to drive innovation to address global societal challenges - and to create positive impact on society.

This year's conference was opened by Daria Krivonos, CEO at the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies. She challenged us to think about the future in the plural - that there is not one future but many, and we need to practice our ability to think in parallel futures. We need to look at different uncertainties and see them as features, not as bugs. She emphasized that the decisions we make today will impact us tomorrow - and that we have an opportunity to shape the future through the actions we take today. Crucial facts going forward.

It is also essential to recognize all the progress being made worldwide. How Portugal has created the first science park entirely powered by renewable energy, as well as how many innovation environments are investing heavily in new energy sources to reduce carbon emissions, and how progress is being made to secure the future of health and well-being. LiU Professor Per Frankelius, participated in a panel discussion on the future of food supply, along with representatives from Thailand, the Czech Republic, and Portugal, where he highlighted important trends in the Agtech field to ensure that we can feed the planet in the future.

The issue of competence was discussed from a demographic perspective - the West is suffering from an aging population, while large parts of Africa and India have a population where up to 50% are under 15 years old. How do we ensure competence supply in the future, and what actions do we need to take today to get there?

I had the privilege of moderating a panel on the theme of Creative Industries, and my main takeaway was the untapped potential of how stories can bridge gaps not only between generations and continents but also how individuals can receive support in understanding complex contexts and issues. Through immersive experiences and storytelling, we can also confront significant societal challenges, such as the climate crisis, and experience them with both our bodies and minds.

There are many things to take away from Luxembourg, but here are a few key points:

• The importance of diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration, which becomes evident when we gather from more than 50 nations. Our own values and worldviews are challenged and given perspective.
• The significance of collaboration in times of global tendencies towards more regional borders.
• The power of people and community - we are stronger together. We get better together.
• Learning about how different innovation parks are developing - there are different dynamics, but they all contribute to positive impacts on society and an improved quality of life.
• Connecting the dots and not leaving anyone behind.

I bring with me back home new friendships, encouragement, and a feeling of moving forward together.

/Lena Miranda September, 2023